Work zone intrusion alert system

ABSTRACT

One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for alerting workers in a work zone of a potential intrusion by a vehicle. The example system can comprise a detection unit operable to mount to a work zone boundary marker. The detection unit can monitor the work zone for intrusion by moving objects, such as by using the Doppler Effect. The detection unit can transmit an alarm signal to one or more personnel alerters, such as worn by workers. The personnel alerters can receive the alarm signal and activate an alert, such as an audible, visual, or other sensory alert. In this way, an alert is provided to personnel working in an established work zone that a moving object, such as a vehicle, has penetrated the work zone perimeter. This type of alert may provide the personnel the vital seconds needed to move to safety.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/089,087, entitled WORK ZONE INTRUSION ALERT SYSTEM, filed Nov. 4,2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 16/278,990, entitled WORK ZONE INTRUSION ALERT SYSTEM, filed Feb.19, 2019, and claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 62/631,525, entitled WORKZONE INTRUSION ALERT SYSTEM, filed Feb. 16, 2018; and claims priority toU.S. Ser. No. 63/029,844, entitled WORK ZONE INTRUSION ALERT SYSTEM,filed May 26, 2020, all of which are incorporated herein by reference intheir entirety.

BACKGROUND

Work zone safety may be important for personnel working in areas subjectto vehicle traffic, such as on roadways, industrial throughways, andother areas. Some systems can alert workers when an unauthorized vehicleenters the work zone. Existing devices may utilize some of the followingmethods to provide an alert to a worker; 1) a compressed CO₂ canister,2) wireless network communication, and 3) air compression hoses linkedto portable vibration alert devices that are worn by the workers.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key factors oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

One or more techniques and systems described herein can be utilized toprovide an alert to one or more workers in a work zone of a potentialintrusion by a vehicle. For example, by providing an alert, such as anaudible, visible, or sensory alert, in one or more locations, the workzone intrusion alert system, described herein, can alert personnelworking in an established work zone that an unauthorized vehicle haspenetrated the work zone perimeter. This type of alert may provide thepersonnel time to move out of the way of the vehicle. For example, thesystem can be deployed in frequently moving, or temporary work zones,where safety barriers may not be a viable option, such as where avehicle lane closure is undertaken.

In one implementation of a system for alerting personnel proximate awork zone to a work zone intrusion, a detection unit is mounted to awork zone boundary marker. The detection unit can be used to monitor thework zone for intrusion by moving objects, and the detection unitincludes at least one proximity sensor housed in the detection unit. Theat least one proximity sensor can be used to detect a moving object inthe vicinity of the work zone, for example, using the Doppler Effect.The system includes a personnel alerter configured to activate an alertand a base station configured and adapted to charge and store thepersonnel alerter and the detection unit when not in use. The detectionunit can broadcast an alarm signal that is received by the personnelalerter, such as when the at least one proximity sensor of the detectionunit detects a moving object in the vicinity of the work zone.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the followingdescription and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspectsand implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the variousways in which one or more aspects may be employed. Other aspects,advantages and novel features of the disclosure will become apparentfrom the following detailed description when considered in conjunctionwith the annexed drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B are component diagrams illustrating one implementationof an exemplary system 100 for providing a work zone intrusion alert.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams illustrating implementations ofexample components of one or more systems described herein.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C illustrate an example implementation of one or moreportions of one or more systems described herein.

FIG. 4 is a component diagram illustrating another implementation of anexemplary system for providing a work zone instruction alert.

FIGS. 5A through 5H are component diagrams illustrating one or moreportions of one or more components of an example detection unit.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an implementation of examplecomponents of a system described herein.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are component diagrams illustrating an exampleattachment of the detection unit to a traffic boundary marker.

FIGS. 8A through 8H are component diagrams illustrating an examplepersonnel alerter of the exemplary system.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an implementation of examplecomponents of a system described herein.

FIGS. 10A through 10C are component diagrams illustrating an exampleimplementation of one or more portions of one or more systems describedherein.

FIGS. 11A through 11F are component diagrams illustrating one or moreportions of one or more components of an alternate example detectionunit.

FIGS. 12A through 12C are component diagrams illustrating an alternateimplementation of one or more portions of one or more components of anexample detection unit.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are component diagrams illustrating one alternateimplementation of an example personnel alerter of the exemplary system.

FIGS. 14A through 14C are component diagrams illustrating an alternateimplementation of one or more portions of one or more components of anexample base station.

FIG. 15 is a component diagram illustrating an example implementation ofone or more portions of one or more systems described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to thedrawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer tolike elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes ofexplanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to providea thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. It may beevident, however, that the claimed subject matter may be practicedwithout these specific details. In other instances, structures anddevices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitatedescribing the claimed subject matter.

In one aspect, a temporary work environment, such as one that may bemoved periodically (e.g., on a roadway), may not allow for the use ofphysical barriers to mitigate intrusion by vehicles (e.g., concretebarriers) to protect workers from vehicles that may breach a work zone'sperimeter. Often, the workers utilize a set of one or more temporaryboundary markers (e.g., cones, barrels, etc.), or the like, to demarcatethe work zone, which merely provide a visual indication of a barrier,and provide little physical protection from intruding vehicles, forexample. A system may be devised for providing a work zone intrusionalert, which may provide advanced warning of work-zone intrusion inthese types of situations, while also being convenient and easy to use.As an example, when a vehicle crosses a traffic boundary markerperimeter, the system can activate an intrusion alert that provides analert (e.g., audible, visual, sensory) at one or more appropriatelocations. In this example, this type of advanced notice may give theworkers the added time to take action with regard to the intrudingvehicle.

In another aspect, the system provides one or more sensors adapted todetect and alert personnel in a work zone, such as a construction site,of an imminent intrusion. The various types of intrusions may includemoving vehicles near a defined work zone, such as, for example, duringhighway maintenance or on construction sites.

FIGS. 1A and 1B are component diagrams of one implementation of anexemplary system 100 for providing a work zone intrusion alert. In thisimplementation, the exemplary system 100 can comprise a master device102. The master device can comprise a housing configured to housecomponents of the master device 102, internally (e.g., protection fromenvironment, impact, etc.). The master device 102 housing can beconfigured to be mounted on a traffic boundary marker 152, for example,such as one that is disposed farthest from the work zone, and closest topotentially intruding vehicles. As an example, the master device 102housing can comprise a feature (e.g., cavity or indentation) that allowsit to be engaged with a work zone boundary marker, such as a cone,barrel, upright, post, pole, etc. As another example, the master devicecan comprise an engaging component, such as a clip, projection, clasp,or some type of fastening device that allows it to be selectably engagedwith a work zone boundary marker.

As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the exemplary system 100 can comprise atripwire 104 (e.g., cable, wire, rope, chain, etc.). In oneimplementation, the tripwire 104 can be strung from boundary marker toboundary marker, where the tripwire 104 can serve as a sort of detectionbarrier to cover the spaces between respective work zone boundarymarkers 152. In one implementation, the tripwire 104 may comprise acoupler 108 that is configured to operably, selectably engage with themaster device 102. That is, for example, the coupler 108 is disposed ata coupler end of the tripwire 104, and selectably engages with themaster device 102 during operation of a work zone intrusion alertsystem.

As an example, the coupler 108 can engage with master device 102 bycoupling with a connection (216, FIG. 2A) in the master device 102. Anexample of the coupler engaging the master device can comprise insertingthe coupler 108 in the connection 216, magnetically coupling the coupler108 with the connection 216, otherwise coupling the coupler 108 with theconnection 216 such that the coupler 108 stays in place during normaloperation of the system, but disengages from the master device 102(e.g., from the connection 216) under a pre-determined load applied tothe coupler 108. For example, a pre-determined force applied to thetripwire 104 can apply that force to the coupler 108, which candisengage the coupler from the master device 102.

In one implementation, the master device 102 can be configured to detectwhen the coupler 108 is disengaged from the connection 216. For example,when operably engaged, the coupler 108 may hold a switch in an openposition, and when the coupler is disengaged the switch may default to aclosed position, which can provide for detection of the coupler 108disengaging from the connection 216. As another example, breaking of amagnetic coupling may activate a signal that indicates the coupler 108disengaging from the connection 216. It should be appreciated that it isanticipated that there are several ways to detect decoupling of onecomponent from another.

As an illustrative example, the tripwire 104 is operably, selectablyengaged with the master device 102 using the coupler 108. In thisexample, when the tripwire 104 is impacted and pulled by a vehicle thatcrosses the work zone boundary, the coupler 108 can be disengaged fromthe master device 102, which can result in an activation the system toprovide an alert.

Further, as shown in FIG. 1A, the exemplary system 100 can comprise oneor more boundary marker engaging components 106, such as a firstboundary marker engaging component 106 a, a second boundary markerengaging component 106 b, a third boundary marker engaging component 106c (e.g., and so-on). In one implementation, the respective boundarymarker engaging components 106 can be configured to operably, selectablyengage with a work zone boundary marker 152. That is, for example, thefirst boundary marker engaging component 106 a can selectably engagewith a second work zone boundary marker 152 b; the second boundarymarker engaging component 106 b can selectably engage with a third workzone boundary marker 152 c; the third boundary marker engaging component106 c can selectably engage with a fourth work zone boundary marker 152d (e.g., and so-on). It should be appreciated that the work zoneintrusion system may merely comprise the first boundary marker engagingcomponent 106 a that engages with the second work zone boundary marker152 b; or may comprise the first and the second boundary marker engagingcomponent 106 b engaging with the third work zone boundary marker 152 c(e.g., or the third, fourth, etc.). That is, the example, system can bescalable to comprise a desired number of boundary markers, selected foran expected work zone boundary size, shape, and or desired distancebetween boundary markers.

As one example, the boundary marker engaging components 106 may comprisecone mountable rings, that are selectably engagable in an operably,fixed engagement (e.g., or integrated) with the tripwire 104, and attach(e.g., slide on) to the respective boundary markers 152. In this way,for example, the boundary marker engaging components 106 can be used toengage the tripwire 104 with the respective boundary markers 152. Forexample, the tripwire 104 can comprise segments that are attached toboundary marker engaging components 106, in a chain, with respectiveboundary marker engaging components 106 selectably engaged with aboundary marker 152, to form a physically demarcated boundary of thework zone. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, and described above,at least one of the segments of the tripwire 104 can be selectably,operably coupled with the master device 102 using the coupler 108. Inthat way, for example, when one of the boundary markers 152 aredisplaced (e.g., or the tripwire 104 is displaced), such as by animpact, the tripwire 104 can be disengaged from the master device 102 toactivate the alert system.

In one implementation, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, the exemplary systemmay comprise one or more measuring increments 154, disposed on thetripwire 104 (e.g., marked by color or other marking on the tripwire).In one implementation, the measuring increments 154 may assist a workerduring a set-up process, by helping them identify an appropriatedistance between boundary markers 152, for example, determined by theroadway's posted speed limit. For example, the distance may be specifiedby some regulatory agency, policy or other appropriate engineeringfactors (e.g., by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), OhioDepartment of Transportation (ODOT), Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration (OSHA)).

In one implementation, the respective sections of the tripwire 104 cancomprise a pre-determined, specified distance, for example, appropriatefor a particular use. That is, for example, a first distance 110 a cancomprise the distance from the coupler 108 to the first boundary markerengaging component 106 a on the tripwire. Further, a second distance 110b can comprise the distance between the first boundary marker engagingcomponent 106 a and the second boundary marker engaging component 106 bon the tripwire 104 (e.g., and so-on for a third distance 110 c, etc.).

As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the exemplary system 100 of can comprise oneor more portable alerters 112 (e.g., portable alarm). In oneimplementation, the device may be small enough to be effectively wornon, and/or used by, personnel in the work zone, such as on a belt orclothing of a worker. In one implementation, the portable alerter 112can comprise an engagement component 156, such as a clip or othertemporary engaging component, or can be placed in a convenient locationin the work zone. As an example, when the portable alerter 112 receivesa wireless alert signal from the master device 102, it can activate analert (e.g., audible, visual, sensory), by using an audible speaker(e.g., or strobe, vibration, or other alert), for example, to alertproximate personnel of a potential work zone intrusion.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, FIGS. 2A and 2B arecomponent diagrams illustrating schematic implementations of examplecomponents of one or more systems described herein. As illustrated inFIG. 2A, the master device 102 can comprise a battery 202 that provideselectrical power to the master device 102, and one or more of thevarious components therein. Further, the master device 102 can comprisea wireless transmitter 204 that transmits a wireless alert signal whenan alert state is activated in the system. Additionally, the masterdevice 102 can comprise an alerting component 206 that provides an alertto proximate personnel. In one implementation, the alerting component206 can comprise one or more of: an audio alerter 208, such as anaudible speaker (e.g., emitting an alarm sound); a visual alerter 210,such as a set of one or more lights (e.g., flashing strobe, etc.); and asensory alerter 212, such as a vibrating device that produces avibration detectable by personnel proximate the master device 102.

In one implementation, the master device 102 can comprise anaccelerometer 214 that can detect movement of the master device 102. Forexample, if the accelerometer 214 detects that the master device 102 hasmoved past a threshold acceleration (e.g., or tilt), such as whenimpacted with sufficient force, the alert system can be activated. As anexample, the work zone boundary marker 152 a (e.g., cone, barrel, etc.)with which the master device 102 is engaged may be struck directly, orat any angle, by a vehicle, and the tripwire 104, described above, maynot disconnect from the master device 102. In this example, theaccelerometer 214 can detect the sudden acceleration caused by theimpact, resulting in activation of the alert system (e.g., alert state).In one implementation, the master device 102 can comprise an attachmentcomponent 218 that is used to operably, selectably engage the masterdevice 102 (e.g., the housing of the master device 102) with the workzone boundary marker 152 a.

FIG. 2B illustrates one implementation of an example portable alertdevice 112, which can be worn by personnel and/or placed in or proximateto the work zone within alerting distance from the personnel. In thisimplementation, the portable alert device 112 can comprise a battery 228that provides electrical power to the portable alert device 112, and oneor more of the various components therein. Further, the portable alertdevice 112 can comprise a wireless receiver 230 that receives thewireless alert signal transmitted by the master device 102.Additionally, the portable alert device 112 can comprise an alertingcomponent 220 that provides an alert to proximate personnel to theportable alert device 112. In one implementation, the alerting component220 can comprise one or more of: a portable audio alerter 222, such asan audible speaker (e.g., emitting an alarm sound); a portable visualalerter 224, such as a set of one or more lights (e.g., flashing strobe,etc.); and a portable sensory alerter 226, such as a vibrating devicethat produces a vibration detectable by personnel proximate the portablealert device 112.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, FIGS. 3A, 3B, and3C, illustrate an example implementation of one or more portions of oneor more systems described herein. As an illustrative example, FIGS.3A-3C depict a top down view of an example work zone on a single laneroad, comprising two sides. Of note, the work zone is not to scale, anda variety of factors, including the speed limit of a road, weather andother factors, can be determinative of the appropriate placement of thework zone boundary markers 152 behind a work vehicle 304. In theillustrative implementation of FIG. 3A, a worker 306, wearing theportable alerter 112, is positioned in front of a parked work vehicle304, with an example work zone intrusion alarm system 300, as describedherein, set up behind the parked work vehicle 304. The example work zoneintrusion alarm system 300 comprises the master device 102, operablyengaged with the tripwire 104 (using the coupler, not shown). Respectiveboundary marker engaging components 106 are each selectably engaged witha corresponding work zone boundary marker 152. Further, a distracteddriver 302 is approaching the demarcated work zone from the bottom.

In the illustrative implementation of FIG. 3B, the distracted driver 302has made contact with/impacted the tripwire 104 that is engaged with thework zone boundary markers 152, and held in place by the boundary markerengaging components 106. Further, the tripwire 104 has been disconnected(at the coupler, not shown) from the master device 102, whereupon themaster device 102 detects the decoupling of the coupler from the masterdevice 102, and activates an alert state. Activation of the alert statecan result in the alerting component (e.g., 206 of FIG. 2A) providing analert to the worker 306, such as an audible siren (e.g., and/or flashingstrobe, etc.). At substantially the same time, the wireless transmitter(e.g., 204 of FIG. 2A) in the master device 102 can transmit the alertsignal. Those portable alert devices 112 that are within range of thetransmission can receive the alert signal, using the portable aleter'sreceiver (e.g., 230 of FIG. 2B). Upon receiving the alert signal theportable alerter 112 can activate the portable alerter 220, such as anaudible speaker 222 (e.g., or other alert component 224, 226), which canemit an audible alert (e.g. siren) like noise. In this way, for example,when both the master device's 102 alerting component 206 and portablealerter's alerting component 220 produce an alert that is detectable bythe worker 306, they may be appropriately alerted that the work zoneperimeter has been breached, possibly by a distracted driver 302.

In the illustrative implementation of FIG. 3C, the result of asuccessful operation of the work zone intrusion alerting system 300 canprovide the worker 306 additional time, than without the alert, to moveout of a potential oncoming vehicle (e.g., to safety) in response to thealert. As an example, the distracted driver 302 may collide with theback of the parked work vehicle 304. However, in this example, becausethe worker 306 was alerted prior to the potential collision, they hadadditional time to move off the road prior to the impact occurring.

FIG. 4 illustrates one implementation of an exemplary system 400 forproviding a work zone intrusion alert. In this implementation, theexemplary system 400 may comprise at least one detection unit 402, apersonnel alerter 412, and a base station 404. The detection unit 402may be configured to be mounted on/to (e.g., attached to) acorresponding work zone boundary marker 452 (e.g., a traffic cone,barrel, gate, or the like). For example, one or more of the detectionunits 402 can be configured to detect intrusions in a work zone usingthe Doppler effect and to broadcast an alarm signal upon detection of anintrusion. The personnel alerter 412 may be a wearable device configuredto be attached to the worker, such as using the clothing of a worker406. As an example, the detection units 402 and the personnel alerter412 can be part of a wireless network that actively communicatewirelessly with various components, for example, and may be arranged ina mesh network.

In some implementations, the base station 404 can be configured tophysically store and/or electrically charge the personnel alerters 412and/or the detection units 402, for example, when they are not deployed.As will be described in more detail below, the detection unit 402,personnel alerter 412, and/or base station 404 can provide an alert(e.g., visual, audio, vibrational, etc.) when a work zone boundarymarker 452 is disturbed (e.g., a vehicle hits a traffic cone) and/orwhen the boundary of the work zone is intruded by a moving object (e.g.,a vehicle enters the work zone). As will become apparent below, eachcomponent of the system 400 (e.g., the detection units 402, thepersonnel alerters 412, and the base station 404) may act as a receiverand as a repeater so that intrusion by a moving object anywhere in thesystem 400 activates an alert by each component throughout the system400.

FIGS. 5A-5H is a component diagram illustrating various views of anexemplary embodiment of a detection unit 402 as used in system 400 forproviding a work zone intrusion alert. FIG. 6 illustrates a schematicdiagram of an exemplary embodiment of the detection unit 402. FIGS. 7Aand 7B are component diagrams illustrating one example implementation ofone or more detection units 402 deployed. The detection unit 402 has abody which may comprise a housing 502 and, in some embodiments, a handle506 and/or an engaging member 504. The housing 502 is configured tohouse components of the detection unit 402, internally (e.g., protectionfrom environment, impact, etc.). The detection unit 402 can beconfigured to be lightweight and portable for quick and easy assembly ofthe system 400. To this effect, the detection unit 402 can include ahandle 506 extending from a first (e.g., top) side of the detection unithousing 502 and an engaging member 504 extending from a second (e.g.,bottom) side of the detection unit housing 502. In the embodiment shownin FIGS. 5A-5G, the handle 506 and the engaging member 504 are locatedon opposing sides of the detection unit housing 502 with the engagingmember 504 configured to engage the work zone boundary marker 452 tosecure the detection unit 402 to the work zone boundary marker 452.

The detection unit 402 is configured to be mounted on a work zoneboundary marker 452, for example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7. Generally,the body is operable to mount to a work zone boundary marker 452. Insome embodiments, the engaging member 504 is configured to selectablyengage a work zone boundary marker 452 to mount the detection unit 402onto the work zone boundary marker 452. In some embodiments, selectiveengagement/coupling can be accomplished by inserting the engaging member504 of the detection unit 402 into an opening at the top of the workzone boundary marker 452, as will be described in more detail below.

Although the engaging member 504 is not limited to any particular shapeor size, the engaging member 504 shown in FIG. 5H has a base 522 thatincludes fingers 524 extending outward (e.g., downward,vertically—depending on operable orientation) from the base 522 with thefingers 524 being circumferentially spaced around a center portion ofthe base 522. In this example, the respective ends of the fingers 524can comprise a lip 526 that extends radially outward from the centerportion of the base 522. As an example, to mate the engaging member 504with the work zone boundary marker 452, the fingers 524 can be deflectedradially inward to insert the fingers 524 of the engaging member 504into an opening in the work zone boundary marker 452. Upon insertion,the fingers 524 can rebound, moving radially outward until the fingers524 engage the inner wall of the work zone boundary marker 452.Additionally, the lip 526 on respective fingers 524 can engage a rimdefining the opening in the top of the work zone boundary marker 452,which can help secure the detection unit 402 to the work zone boundarymarker 452. In this manner, for example, a worker 406 may securely mountthe detection unit 402 onto any suitable work zone boundary marker 452.

In some implementations, the detection unit housing 502 can comprise avariety of components, with some components disposed externally forinteraction with a user, and other components disposed internally in thehousing 502, for example, for protection from exposure and/or damage.The detection unit 402 can comprise a power button 508 (e.g., or powerswitch) to initiate activation of the detection unit 402. The detectionunit 402 may also comprise at least one set of lights 510, for examplelight emitting diodes (LEDs) or strobe lights. As an example, the lights510 may be activated when the unit is powered, can be activated atnight, through user action, and/or activated automatically (e.g., in thepresence of low light, to signal the location of the detection unit 402,and/or to serve as a visual alert when an object is detected in thevicinity of the work zone boundary), as will be described in more detailbelow. In some implementations, the detection unit 402 may comprise aUSB port 514 (e.g., or other appropriate communication/power system,such as pci express, InterChip USB, FireWire, Ethernet, MIDI, eSATA,Thunderbolt, etc.), for example, which may be used to charge the battery518 of the detection unit 402. In some implementations, the USB port 514may permit a user to communicate with the detection unit 402, such as toretrieve or upload data from/to the detection unit 402, as an example,by transferring the data to/from a computing device, and/or portablestorage device.

In some implementations, the detection unit 402 can comprise a printedcircuit board (PCB) 520. The PCB 520 can comprise circuits and otherelements to connect and control the various components and systems ofthe detection unit 402, including but not limited to a processor orprocessing device 540. In some implementations, the detection unit 402can comprise an alignment mechanism 512, for example an arrow icon, forreasons that will explained below.

As an example, the detection unit 402 can be used to monitor a boundaryof a work zone, or otherwise desired exclusion zone, for potentialintrusion of the work zone by a moving object. For example, a detectionunit 402 may monitor oncoming traffic in the vicinity of a constructionzone. In some embodiments, a personnel alerter 412 can be worn orcarried by workers 406 located within the work zone. The personnelalerter 412 may be in communication with the detection units 402 tonotify workers 406 of created potential work zone intrusion, forexample, by a quickly approaching vehicle, so that the worker 406 cantake evasive action and to avoid contact with the vehicle.

In some implementations, the detection unit 402 comprises at least onesensor 516. For example, the sensor 516 may be disposed in, or incommunication with, a control unit 530. Data from the sensor 516 may bereceived by another control unit 530 component, such as a transceiver,located in the detection unit 402. In some implementations, the sensor516 may be a Doppler sensor which is configured to detect an object, bythe presence or motion of the object. For example, the detected presenceor motion may be determined by an indication of compressed radar wavesor expanded radar waves to identify whether an object is approaching ormoving away. Further, in some implementations, the indication of thestate of the radar wave may be used to detect the velocity (e.g., speedand direction) of a moving object, the distance to a moving object,and/or the presence of an intruding object, using the Doppler effect.For example, a Doppler sensor uses the phase difference between atransmitted signal and a reflected signal (e.g., the Doppler returnsignal)—where the reflected signal may be reflected from a reflectiveobject in the path of the emitted signal—to detect objects, such asvehicles, present in the vicinity of the work zone. The transmittedsignal and reflected signal may be a radar signal.

In some embodiments, the detection unit 402 may comprise at least onetransmitting antenna and at least one receiving antenna coupled with thesensor 516. As an example, an antenna may provide a more accuratedetermination of the position of an object obtained from the differenttransit times of a signal, such as transmitted from a transmittingantenna, reflected and returned to different receiving antenna. In thisexample, the distance of the object from the work zone can bedetermined, and a trajectory (e.g., direction of travel) of the object,and; in some cases the velocity of the moving object may be determined.

The detection unit 402 may comprise an alignment mechanism 512, such asdirectional arrows. In some implementations, the directional arrows canoperably point in the direction of the coverage (e.g., beam) of aDoppler sensor 516 monitor (e.g., detects reflected signals that wereemitted from the detection unit 402), establishing the range of coverageby the detection unit 402. In some implementations of the system 400,the alignment mechanism 512 of one detection unit 402 can operably bedirected to point in the direction of another detection unit 402. Inthis implementation, the arrow can help align the detection units 402collectively to cover the desired boundary of the work zone, by aligningthe transmission of signals from one detection unit 402 to anotherdetection unit 402. Thus, the alignment mechanism 512 can advantageouslyassist personnel in arranging the detection units 402 such that thecorresponding Doppler sensor 516 can be used to monitor oncoming trafficalong the work zone boundary. As an example, the number of detectionunits 402 included in a system 400 can depend on the size and shape ofthe work zone boundary desired to be monitored. For example, a detectionunit 402 can be mounted on respective work zone boundary markers 452,alternating boundary markers 452, or any desired combination thatprovides appropriate coverage.

In some implementations, the detection units 402 can be wirelessly,communicatively coupled with each other (e.g., or a desired set ofunits, and/or in communication with the base station 404) to create amesh network. As an example, communicatively coupled detection units 402can act as a receiver and repeater so that an alarm signal indicated atone detection unit 402 may be broadcast to other units in the meshnetwork. In this example, other detection units 402 (e.g., or the basestation) of the system 400 may receive the broadcast signal and activatetheir alarms and/or, use their transmitter 532, and transmit an alarmsignal to a personnel alerter 412 and/or base station 404.

In some embodiments, the detection unit 402 may comprise a control unit530 for interfacing with the Doppler sensor 516 and the transmitter 532to control the transmission of the alarm signal to other detection units402 and personnel alerters 412. The detection unit 402 may comprise atleast one processing device 540 configured to evaluate data, for exampleto compare with predetermined threshold data, to determine whether anobject is detected (e.g., moving) in the vicinity of the work zoneboundary being monitored. In various embodiments, the detection unit 402may comprise one or more software modules 542 comprising code configuredto provide for evaluation of a signal indicative of a detected object,for example, to identify a potential work zone intrusion based on theproximity of the moving object to the work zone, direction of travel ofthe moving object, and/or speed of the moving object.

Moreover, in some embodiments, the detection unit 402 (e.g., the baseunit, and/or the personal alerter 412) can activate an audible, visual,and/or vibrational alert, such as an alarm, when the detected object(e.g., vehicle) crosses a predetermined distance, trajectory, and/orvelocity threshold. For example, setting a detection threshold at ahigher value (e.g., an object size, direction, and/or speed) maymitigate activation of a false alarm, such as by a pedestrian or animal.Moreover, for example, the detection unit 402 may include a timeduration threshold to determine whether a moving object has maintained alocation, and/or direction of travel, for a desired time interval (e.g.,long enough to indicate a probable intrusion of the work zone). Thedetection of the time interval for the detected object may help mitigatethe activation of false alarms.

In some implementations, the detection unit 402 may comprise other typesof sensors. In some embodiments, the detection unit 402 can comprise amagnetic sensor to detect the presence of metal objects in order todifferentiate from non-metallic objects (e.g., people, animals). In someembodiments, the detection unit 402 can comprise one or more opticalsensors (e.g., infrared (IR) light or lasers) to detect objects movingbetween work zone boundary markers 452. In some embodiments, thedetection unit 402 may further comprise a motion sensor to detecttraffic cone tilt, vibration, shock, or fall. The user (e.g., serviceprovider or manufacturer) may adjust the sensitivity of the sensors toreduce false alarms by tuning or disabling the motion sensor motionsensitivity, the Doppler sensor range, the object detection triggerthreshold, the time duration of sensed object's trigger threshold, agravity threshold of nearby ferromagnetic objects. In some embodiments,more than one type of sensor may be active at the same time, and theprocessor/software modules can use the results of respective sensors toprovide more accurate information leading to improved reliability of thesystem 400 and fewer false alarms.

In some implementations, the system 400 may comprise a mechanism forcontinuous improvement of system performance. For example, the system400 may be configured to undertake real time learning, for example, bycapturing data associated with events, storing the data linked to theevents in a database, and adjusting a detection algorithm based at leaston the updated data. For example, event data may be stored in some formof memory for diagnostic purposes. As an example, by recording andprocessing data associated with the effectiveness of detection overtime, the algorithm learning process may improve accuracy of its resultsover time, thereby providing for continuous improvement of the selectiveintrusion detection system 400. In some embodiments, software modules542 comprise code that operates to examine data associated with adetected object (e.g., direction of a moving object) detected by theDoppler sensor 516 and estimate a work zone intrusion probability basedat least on actual versus ideal object detection. An alert device 534,such as an alarm emitted from an audio alerter 536 and/or a visualalerter 538, may be operatively connected to the processing device 540,wherein the processing device 540 and alert device 534 are configured toactivate an alert in the event the processing device 540 and/or softwaremodule 542 determines an improved detection of an impending work zoneintrusion.

The system 400 disclosed herein can comprise a Doppler sensor 516 thatcan be used to detect an object (e.g., oncoming vehicle) at or prior tothe vehicle entering the work zone, and/or impacting a work zoneboundary marker 452 using the Doppler effect. The detection unit 402broadcasts (e.g., transmits using the transmitter 532) an alarm signalupon detection of an object (e.g., moving) in the work zone. As anillustrative example, in the event an oncoming vehicle collides with thework zone boundary marker 452, the detection unit 402 may have one ormore sensors (e.g., circuitry, such as disposed on the PCB) configuredto detect when a detection unit 402 is moved (e.g., knocked over), andin response, produce a signal (e.g., wirelessly) resulting in activationof an alert. In some implementations, the detection unit 402 may beconfigured to monitor its own internal health, along with associatedcomponents such as, for example, battery life.

In some implementations of the system 400, the detection unit 402 can bein wireless communication with one or more personnel alerters 412 aswell as a base station 404. The base station 404 may be communicativelycoupled with the detection unit 402, and can be configured to operablyelectrically charge the detection unit 402, such as when the detectionunit 402 is stowed in the base station 404. The base station 404 may beconfigured to receive and store information from one or more detectionunits 402. In some implementations, the base station 404 may serve as acharging station to charge the detection units 402 and/or personnelalerters 412. In some embodiments, the base station 404 contains analarm (e.g., siren, light signal) and can act as a repeater bybroadcasting an alarm signal to the one or more personnel alerters 412.For example, the base station 404 may act as a repeater by receiving asignal, such as an alarm signal from the detection unit 402 and/or thepersonnel alerter 412, and can rebroadcast the signal to the detectionunit 402 and/or the personnel alerter 412, for example, so that thesignal can cover a distance that may be outside of the range of anindividual unit, and/or may be received by a unit otherwise blocked byan obstruction (e.g., a vehicle or other construction equipment).

As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 8A-8H, the exemplary system 400 cancomprise one or more personnel alerters 412 (e.g., portable communicatorand/or alarm). In one implementation, the personnel alerter 412 may besized to be effectively worn on (e.g., a wearable device), and/or usedby, workers 406 inside the work zone, such as on a belt or clothing ofthe worker 406. In one implementation, the personnel alerter 412 cancomprise an engagement component 802, such as a clip or other selectableengaging component, or the personnel alerter 412 can be placed in aconvenient location in the work zone. In some embodiments, theengagement component 802 can comprise a clip that is spring loaded 824to apply localized tension to the personnel alerter 412 at a retainingelement 804, for example, a set of interlocking teeth. As an example,the interlocking teeth 804 are configured to selectably secure anarticle of clothing between the interlocking teeth 804 of the clip 802to provide for the personnel alerter 412 to be operably attached to aworker 406.

In various embodiments, the personnel alerter 412 may comprise, forexample, a vibration module (e.g., motor) to provide perceivedvibration, a sound module (e.g., speaker) to provide audible indicators,and/or a visual module (e.g., light(s)) to provide visual indicators,which can be configurable to alert a worker 406 of a potential work zoneintrusion. In use, as one example, the personnel alerter 412 receives awireless alarm signal from one or more detection units 402 (e.g., and/orbase unit 404) and, in response, the personnel alerter 412 activates analert (e.g., audible alert, visual alert, and/or sensory alert). As anexample, the personnel alerter 412 may initiate an audible alert using aspeaker 818 to alert workers 406 of a work zone intrusion.

In some implementations, the personnel alerter 412, if in the form of awearable device, may be programmed to vibrate at varying levels ofvibration magnitude. For example, increased intensity (e.g., magnitude)of vibrations may be used to help a worker 406 sense the alert because,in some instances (e.g., noisy environment), an audible alert alone maynot be noticed by a worker 406. Examples where intense vibrations may bea method of notifying a worker 406 of a work zone intrusion (e.g., anoncoming vehicle) include situations involving the presence ofsignificant environmental noise or, in the event a worker 406 is hard ofhearing.

FIGS. 8A-8H show various views of an exemplary embodiment of a personnelalerter 412, as can be used in system 400, for providing a work zoneintrusion alert. In some implementations, the personnel alerter 412 mayhave a portable body comprising a housing 800 configured to housecomponents of the personnel alerter 412 internally (e.g., protectionfrom environment, impact, etc.), and configured to be portable, such ascarried or worn by a user. In some implementations, the personnelalerter housing 800 can comprise various components, with somecomponents disposed externally for interaction with a user, and othercomponents disposed internally in the housing 800, for example, forprotection from exposure and/or damage. In some implementations, thepersonnel alerter 412 can comprise a power button 812 (e.g., or switch)which activates/deactivates power (e.g., turns on/off) the personnelalerter 412. As an example, the power button 812 can activate componentswithin the personnel alerter 412 resulting in the establishment of awireless connection between the personnel alerter 412 and the detectionunits 402 and base station 404. The personnel alerter 412 may comprise abattery power indicator 810, such as a light, to indicate the batterylife of the personnel alerter 412. For example, the light of the batterypower indicator 810 may change color (e.g., red, yellow, green, or someother colors) as the battery's power reduces. The personnel alerter 412may also comprise at least one set of lights 806, for example LED lightsprotected by a clear lens 808. As an example, the lights 806 may beactivated at night to provide a visual alert when an object is detectedwithin the vicinity of the work zone boundary, as will be furtherdescribed below.

The personnel alerter 412 may comprise a speaker 818 to provide anaudible alert to the worker 406 when an alert signal is activated, suchas when a moving object is detected within the vicinity of the work zoneboundary. The personnel alerter 412 may also comprise a USB port 814(e.g., or other appropriate communication/power system, such as pciexpress, InterChip USB, FireWire, Ethernet, MIDI, eSATA, Thunderbolt,etc.), for example, which may be used, in combination with a chargingcoupler, to charge the battery 816 of the personnel alerter 412. In someimplementations, the USB port 814, in combination with a communicationcoupler, may permit a user to retrieve data from the personnel alerter412 by transferring the data to a portable storage device. The personnelalerter 412 may have a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) operational unit 822designed for low power consumption by the system 400. For example, theBLE unit 822 can comprise a communication module that is used to set upand use a local or personal area network with proximate devices, such asthe base unit 404 and/or one or more of the detection units 402. The BLEoperational unit 822 may communicate with other BLE operational units822 included in other personnel alerters 412 of the system 400 toactivate the alerts on some or all of the personnel alerters 412, forexample, when a vehicle intrusion is detected. The personnel alerter 412can comprise a printed circuit board (PCB) 820. The PCB 820 can comprisecircuits and other elements to connect and control the various elementsof the personnel alerter 412.

FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic diagram of another implementation of anexample personnel alerter 912 for example, which can be worn by a worker406 and/or placed in or proximate to the work zone within alertingdistance from the worker 406. In this implementation, the personnelalerter 912 can comprise a battery 928 that provides electrical power tothe personnel alerter 912, and one or more of the various componentstherein. Further, the personnel alerter 912 can comprise a wirelessreceiver 930 that receives the wireless alarm signal transmitted by oneor more of the detection unit(s) 402 and the base station 404.Additionally, the personnel alerter 912 can comprise an alertingcomponent 920 that provides an alert to personnel proximate to thepersonnel alerter 912. In one implementation, the alerting component 920can comprise one or more of: an audio alerter 922, such as an audiblespeaker (e.g., emitting an alarm sound); a visual alerter 924, such as aset of one or more lights (e.g., flashing strobe, etc.); and a sensoryalerter 926, such as a vibrating device that produces a vibrationdetectable by personnel proximate the personnel alerter 912. In oneimplementation, the system 400 provides notifications that are assignedbased on the condition. The notifications reflect a condition byadjusting lights, altering the sound patterns of alerts based on trafficand/or worker conditions (reading slow vehicle or worker/person walkinginto zone). Any type of lighting pattern may be used in the system 400such as, for example, variable/random lighting patterns based on typesof alerts. In some embodiments, the user and/or manufacturer may haveability to enable/disable the flashing lights on the personnel alerter912.

As an example, the work zone intrusion alarm system 400 can be used toalert a zone worker 406 when an object has been detected in the workzone, such as a moving object, for example, by providing an alert oralarm that signals the worker 406 to move to safety. In oneimplementation, detecting an intrusion of the work zone by a movingobject can be performed using a Doppler sensor 516. The detection unit402 and personnel alerter 412, 912 can emit both light and sound, forexample, alerting the worker 406 to move to safety. The base station 404may provide an audible alert, and can be used to charge and/or store thepersonnel alerter 412, 912 and the detection units 402 when they are notin use.

It should be noted that the system 400 can be configured to be capableof modification, depending on the intended use of the system 400 by theuser. For example, the system 400 may include two or moreimplementations that can be operated substantially simultaneously, inparallel, in series, etc. In one implementation, for example, the system400 may comprise line-of-sight lasers that create a trip-line barrierthat allows workers 406 to engage within the work zone. In the otherimplementation, the system 400 may comprise both laser and Dopplertechnologies for use based on the situation. A system operating usingDoppler technology and, in some instances, the use of lasers can helpmitigate the use of cords and/or exposed charging areas, may help withalignments of stations 402, and or may be used to detect objectsentering the work-zone.

In some examples, the system 400 can be managed by the personnel 406using the personnel alerter 412, 912. As an example, the system 400 maybe configured to allow users to reset and operate the system 400 usingcontrol features disposed on/in the personnel alerter 412, 912. That is,for example, the personal alerter 412 can comprise a reset button toreset the system after an activation; an activation button to initiateor activate the system; or other components that allow for operablemodification of the system.

With reference to FIGS. 4 through 9, FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C, illustratean example implementation of one or more portions of one or more systemsdescribed herein. As an illustrative example, FIGS. 10A-10C depict a topdown view of an example work zone on a single lane road, comprising twosides. Of note, the work zone is not to scale, and a variety of factors,including the speed limit of a road, weather and other factors, can bedeterminative of the appropriate placement of the work zone boundarymarkers 1052 behind a work vehicle 1004. In the illustrativeimplementation of FIG. 10A, a worker 1006, wearing the personnel alerter1012, is positioned in front of a parked work vehicle 1004, with anexample work zone intrusion alarm system 1000, as described herein, setup behind the parked work vehicle 1004. The example work zone intrusionalarm system 1000 comprises detection units 1002 mounted to respectivework zone boundary markers 1052. Although not clear in the drawing, thealignment mechanism of one detection unit 1002 points in the directionof another detection unit 1002. Further, a distracted driver 1020 isapproaching the demarcated work zone from the bottom.

In the illustrative implementation of FIG. 10B, the distracted driver1020 has been detected by the detection units 1002 and has made contactwith/impacted the work zone boundary markers 1052. The detection unit1002 activates an alert state. Activation of the alert state can resultin the detection unit 1002 providing an alert to the worker 1006, suchas an audible siren (e.g., and/or flashing strobe, etc.). Atsubstantially the same time, the wireless transmitter in detection unit1002 can transmit the alarm signal. Those personnel alerters 1012 thatare within range of the transmission can receive the alarm signal, usingthe receiver of the personnel alerters 1012 (e.g., 930 of FIG. 9). Uponreceiving the alarm signal, the personnel alerter 1012 can activate thealerting component 920, such as the speaker of the audio alerter 922(e.g., or other alerter 924, 926), which can emit an audible alert (e.g.siren). In this way, for example, when both the detection unit's 1002alert device and the personnel alerter's 912 alerting component 920activate an alert that is detectable by the worker 1006, the worker 1006may be appropriately alerted that the work zone perimeter has beenbreached, possibly by a distracted driver 1020.

In one illustrative implementation, the work zone intrusion alertingsystem 400 can provide the worker 406 with additional time to move outof the path of an oncoming vehicle in response to the alert. As anexample, the distracted driver 1020 may collide with the back of theparked work vehicle 1004. However, in this example, because the worker1006 was alerted prior to the potential collision, the worker 1006 hadadditional time to move off the road prior to the impact occurring.

As an illustrative example, a number of detection units 1002 used to setup a work zone boundary can be determined by the speed limit (e.g., orexpected speed) for vehicles in the area of the work zone, the terrain,sight lines, weather, and other site circumstances. As an example, table1 below is one implementation of a number and length of a work zone on aroadway.

TABLE 1 Speed Buffer Taper Total Length # of (mph) (feet) (feet) (feet)Cones 20 115 67 182 9 25 155 104 259 10 30 200 150 350 12 35 250 204 45413 40 305 267 572 14 45 360 450 810 18 50 425 500 925 19 55 495 5501,045 19 60 570 600 1,170 20 65 645 650 1,295 20 70 730 700 1,430 20 75820 750 1,570 21

In this example, a user can determine the size of the buffer zone; asshown in table 1, this is the area that separates the back of the firstwork vehicle to the end of a transition area. Table 2 below shows theappropriate distance based on the speed limit of the road as a functionof speed.

TABLE 2 Speed* Distance 20 mph 115 feet 25 mph 155 feet 30 mph 200 feet35 mph 250 feet 40 mph 305 feet 45 mph 360 feet 50 mph 425 feet 55 mph495 feet 60 mph 570 feet 65 mph 645 feet 70 mph 730 feet 75 mph 820 feet*Posted speed, off-peak 85th-percentile speed prior to work starting, orthe anticipated operating speed

In this example, workers can determine the size of the transition areathat will divert traffic around the work area. Table 3 below shows thecalculations used to calculate this area and has two different equationsfor urban streets and high speed roads. The width (W) is determined bythe number of lanes blocked off. A typical lane in the USA is 10 feetwide. If the work zone blocks off one lane, then the width is 10. If twolanes, it is 20 feet.

TABLE 3 Speed (S) Taper Length (L) in feet 40 mph or tees$L = \frac{{WS}^{2}}{60}$ 45 mph or more L = WS Where: L = taper lengthin feet W = width of offset in feet S = posted speed limit, or off-peak85th-percentile speed prior to work starting, or the anticipatedoperating speed in mph

In some implementations, the respective detection units 1002 used todemarcate a work-zone boundary may be able to detect objects up toseventy-five feet away. As an example, the Doppler antenna array can beprogrammatically adjusted to effectively detect objects at a variety ofranges. However, in this example, the effective range to appropriatelydetect objects, while mitigating false alarms, may be approximatelyseventy-five feet. Depending on the intended use, such as location andexpected speed of the area, the range may be programmatically adjustedto accommodate a shorter range, which may provide improved accuracy andfurther reduce potential false alarms. That is, for example, as the beamemits from the Doppler array (e.g., at thirteen degrees wide angle), thedetection area increases the further away from the detection unit 1002.Therefore, an increase in distance from the detection unit 1002 alsoincreases the detection area, which may result in increased false alarmsdue to the detection area encroaching outside the work-zone boundary.Therefore, in some implementations, the respective detection units canbe programmatically adjusted to have an effective detection range thatapproximates the distance between markers and detection units 1002.

In some implementations, it is estimated that two cone mounted detectionunits 1002 may be used for lower speed work zones, for example, andthree detection units 1002 may be used for higher speed areas or areaswith bends in the road. As an example, a single cone mounted detectionunit 1002 can effectively cover 75 feet with its Doppler radar beam. Inthis example, a user can scale up or scale down the detection rangebased on the environment, etc., as described above. As an example, aseries of cones (e.g., as described above) can be used to demarcate awork-zone boundary, and a detection unit 1002 can be placed on a coneevery seventy-five feet (e.g., or less depending on conditions), therebyhaving one or more cones without detection units 1002 between each unit.

It should be appreciated that a range of a Doppler array disposed in adetection unit 1002 may be two-hundred feet or more. However, in someimplementations, an effective range of the detection unit 1002 may beset to approximately one-hundred and twenty feet as a high end detectionrange. As described above, for example, effective detection may includereduction of false negatives which may occur when the range is extended.In some implementations, respective detection units 1002 may comprise anadjustable setting that allows a user (e.g., or adjustment may beautomated based on a preset safety zone setting) to adjust the effectiverange of the Doppler array. For example, respective Doppler arrays maybe adjusted between a fifty foot, 80 foot, and one-hundred and twentyfoot range. It should be anticipated that other range settingadjustments may be made available from greater than zero feet up to(e.g., or greater than) two-hundred feet, and any effective distance inbetween. As another example, an adjustment setting for respectivedetection units 1002 may allow a user (e.g., or preset setting) toprovide infinite adjustment above zero and up to the maximum effectiverange of the provided Doppler array.

In some implementations, the detection unit 1002 may comprise a button(e.g., or on-screen UI widget) that can be activated (e.g., pushed,touched, or otherwise activated) to adjust the range setting. Forexample, a first activation of the button may set the range at fiftyfeet, and second activation may set the range at eighty feet, and athird activation may set the range at one-hundred and twenty feet. Inother implementations, the adjustment setting may be adjusted using aknob, switch, or dial. In other implementations, the adjustment settingmay be set using an on-screen user interface that allows input of thedesired range (e.g., using a user interface), or operation of anon-screen widget. In other implementations, the effective range may beauto-set based on a predetermined configuration of the safety zone(e.g., based on size, scope, circumstances, distances between cones,speed limit, environmental conditions, etc.).

Further, in one aspect the detection unit 1002 may be configured tofilter out non-target objects, such that an alert is not provided when anon-target object is detected. That is, for example, the detection unitscan be configured to detect an object that may provide a safety concernto workers disposed within the safety zone, such as automobiles. ADoppler array may be used to detect the speed, size, and/or direction oftravel of an object. As such, in some implementations, the detectionunit 1002 may be configured to merely identify objects that meet apredetermined threshold for activation of an alert, based oncharacteristics of the object detected. As an example, objects that areidentified as being smaller that a preset size (e.g., smaller than anautomobile—motorcycle, car, truck, etc.) may be filtered out, such aspeople, animals, etc. Additionally, objects that are travelling below apredetermined threshold speed may be filtered out from an alertactivation. As another example, the Doppler array may be able to detectwhether an object is moving toward the detection unit 1002 or away fromthe detection unit 1002. In this example, objects that are moving awayfrom the detection unit may be filtered out from an alert activation.

In another aspect, Doppler arrays can be configured to run at differentfrequencies. For example, a plurality of Doppler arrays can be each beset to run at different frequencies, such as 10 gigahertz, 9.998gigahertz, 9.997 gigahertz, and so on. In this way, for example, therespective Doppler arrays deployed in the detection units 1002 may notinterfere with each other during operation. For example, the deploymentof the respective detection units 1002 in a safety zone may provide foroverlapping Doppler beams, at least in part. In this example, usingdifferent frequencies may mitigate interference between the overlappingDoppler beams. In some implementations, the frequency used by eachdetection unit deployed can be set manually, such as by a user, orprogrammatically by a preset deployment design.

As an example, each detection unit may have a preset frequency that ishard coded during set up (e.g., manufacture). An exemplary detectionunit 1002 may comprise a code that identifies it the unit's hard-codedfrequency. In other implementations, the frequency may be updated attime of deployment, by a user, programmatically, and/or based ondetection of already deployed frequencies. That is, for example, at timeof activation (e.g., deployment), a first frequency may be set (e.g., bythe base unit 404 or detection unit 1002) for a first detection unit. Inthis example, when a second detection unit is activated (e.g.,deployed), a second frequency can be set for the second unit, based onthe known setting of the first frequency or based on detection of thefirst frequency already being in use. In this way, for example, aplurality of detection units 1002 may be activated and deployed, whereeach is using a different frequency. As another example, when a thirdunit is activated, the third unit (e.g., or base unit) may send aninquiry to other activated units to identify their frequencies, and thethird unit may select a different (third) frequency.

FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C are component diagrams illustrating an alternateimplementation of a detection station 1102 (e.g., alternate to 402 ofFIG. 4). In this implementation, the detection station 1102 can comprisea housing 1104 for housing various components of the detection station1102. Further, the detection station 1102 can comprise one or morebatteries 1106 a, 1106 b (e.g., for extended power, and/or for powerbackup, such as up to 16 hours of use, with an additional safety margin)to electrically power the station 1102. A Doppler sensor 1108, such as aDoppler strip array (e.g., antenna array), and a sensor circuit board1110 can be used to operably detect an object approaching and/or in awork-zone, as described above. In some implementations, the exampledetection station 1102 can comprise an inductive pick-up coil forreceiving wireless power from a complementary charging station, tocharge/recharge the batteries 1106 a, 1106 b.

FIGS. 11D, 11E, and 11F are component diagrams that illustrate oneexample implementation of the Doppler sensor system. In this example,FIG. 11D illustrates the front of the Doppler antenna array 1108, andFIG. 11 E illustrates the back side of the Doppler antenna array 1108.Further, a digital signal processing (DSP) board 1110 for the Dopplerantenna 1108 is illustrated in FIG. 11F. In this example implementation,the antenna 1108 can comprise a custom microstrip design that iscompact, and separates the antenna from the DSP electronics on the DSPboard 1110. As one example, the antenna 1108 can be approximately3.5′×2.9″×0.25″ in size; and the DSP board 1110 can be approximately1.73″×2.9″×0.25″ in size. In some implementations, the antenna signalcan utilize a 24 GHz signal frequency for Doppler radar detection. Inthis implementation, the detection range can comprise up to one-hundredand fifty feet to detect objects, such as vehicles and people. In someimplementations, the detection radar beam may have an operable angle ofapproximately thirteen degrees. As one example, a 3.7 VDC lipo batterycan be used to power the antenna array at 480 mA.

Returning to FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C, an attachment device 1160 can bedisposed in the housing 1102 for operable coupling with a boundarymarker. A controller circuit board 1114 can be disposed in the housing1104 for operably determining whether an object has entered thework-zone, the station 1102 has been impacted/moved, and/or totransmit/broadcast an alarm signal on a coupled network, among otherthings. Additionally, a handle 1116 may be fixedly engaged with thehousing to provide for portability. One or more light arrays 1112 can bedisposed around the housing to provide visible indications, such as whenpowered on, and/or when an alert is indicated.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C are component diagrams that illustrate analternate attachment device 1160 for coupling a detection unit (e.g.,1102 of FIG. 11) to a work zone boundary marker. In this implementation,the example device 1160 can comprise a first set of engagement fingers1264 and a second set of engagement fingers 1266. Further, therespective fingers 1264, 1266 can be fixed to a base 1262 to operablyextend downward, for example. In this implementation, the first set offingers 1264 can be configured to operably engage/couple with a firstmarker 1270, which comprises a first top configuration. Additionally,the second set of fingers 1266 can be configured to operablyengage/couple with a second marker 1272, which comprises a second topconfiguration. That is, for example, a first top configuration maycomprise an indentation (e.g., a divot cone top), and the second topconfiguration may comprise straight walls (e.g., straight top cone). Asan example, multiple fingers can aid in operable coupling with aplurality of different types of marker tops.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are component diagrams illustrating an alternateimplementation of a personal alerter 1300 (e.g., alternate to 412 ofFIG. 8). In this implementation, the personal alerter 1300 can comprisean alerter housing 1302 for housing components, an alerter attachmentcomponent 1304, and visible indicator 1306 to provide visual indicationof an alert and/or other information. The visible indicator 1306 cancomprise a light array 1308 (e.g., comprising LEDs) and an opticallyclear cover 1310 to provide protection to the light array 1308. Thealerter attachment component 1304 can comprise an attachment clip 1318that can operably couple with personnel clothing, and a retention spring1320 to operably bias the attachment clip 1318 against the housing 1302to facilitate securing the alerter 1300 to the personnel.

Further, in this implementation, the alerter 1300 can comprise a controlpanel 1310 that is used to operate the alerter 1300, such as powerbutton, and other control functions. A control circuit board 1314 can beused to control desired functions of the alerter 1300, such as receivingor transmitting signals, communicatively coupling with other componentsof the system (e.g., 400), and activating signaling/alerting componentsof the alerter 1300. The alerter 1300 can comprise a speaker 1316 toprovide an audible signal to personnel in a work zone and a sensoryalert component 1312 (e.g., vibration motor) to provide a sensory alertto an individual wearing the alerter 1300. The example base station 1400can comprise a battery 1324 for storing and providing electrical powerto the alerter 1300. In some implementations, the portable alerter 1300can comprise an inductive charging coil 1322 for wirelessly charging thebattery 1324.

FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C are component diagrams illustrating variousviews of one implementation of a base station. FIG. 14A comprises a topperspective view of a base station 1400 without stowed components; FIG.14B comprises a side perspective view of a base station 1400 withcomponents stowed; and FIG. 14C comprises a side perspective view of abase station 1400 in exploded view. In this implementation, the basestation 1400 comprises a housing 1402 formed by a top section 1404 and abottom section 1406. The top section 1404 comprises stowage pockets1408, 1410 for holding stowed components. For example, a first stowagepocket 1408 can be configured to hold a detection station (e.g., 402,1102) in a stowed position; and a second stowage pocket 1410 can beconfigured to hold a portable alerter (e.g., 412, 1300) in a stowedposition. The housing can be comprised of a suitable polymer, metal,carbon fiber, glass fiber, or other material selected for suitabilityfor intended use. Further, in some implementations, the housing can beformed to create a suitable shape to fit the housing in a target case,to fit target detection stations, and to fit target portable alerters.

In this implementation, the base station 1400 comprises a user interface1412, which can be used by personnel to operate the base station 1400.For example, the user interface can comprise a panel with physicalbuttons and/or switches, and/or can comprise a touch enabled screen thatallows the user to interact with the base station 1400. As an example,the user interface may allow the user to power on/off the base station1400, set up a communication network, reset the system, update securityprotocols, connect with target devices in the system, perform internalhealth checks, manage recharging operations of a stowed device, andother functions related to operating a managing a work-zone alertingsystem (e.g., 400). Further, respective first stowage pockets 1408 cancomprise a first charging pocket 1414 that is configured to align awireless charging location of a stowed detection station 1450 with awireless charging component in the base station 1400.

As illustrated, the base station 1400 is configured to operably stow oneor more detections stations 1450, and one or more portable alerters1452. In this implementation, when in the stowed position, therespective detection stations 1450 and portable alerters 1452 can beselectably charged, either wirelessly or using a charging cord (notshown). Further, the base station 1400 can comprise a first inductive,wireless charging coil 1416 disposed at respective first chargingpockets 1414 (e.g., internally), and a second inductive, wirelesscharging coil 1418 disposed at respective second charging pockets 1420(e.g., internally). In this implementation, for example, the firstcharging pocket 1414 can align a complementary inductive charging coildisposed in the detection station (e.g., 1118 of 1102) with the firstinductive, wireless charging coil 1416 disposed in the base station 1400to provide for wireless charging of the detection station (e.g., 1102)when stowed. Additionally, for example, the second charging pocket 1420can align a complementary inductive charging coil disposed in theportable alerter (e.g., 1322 of 1300) with the second inductive,wireless charging coil 1418 disposed in the base station 1400 to providefor wireless charging of the portable alerter (e.g., 1300) when stowed.

In this implementation, the base station 1400 can comprise one or morecharging control circuit boards 1422, which are respectivelyelectrically coupled with a corresponding charging coil 1416, 1418, tocontrol the wireless charging of a coupled device. Further, one or morestation control circuit boards 1424 can be used to control variousfunctions of the base station 1400, and may comprise a processor,memory, one or more alerter controls (e.g., for sound, light control),communications components (e.g., BLE device) for network connectivity,and other components. Additionally, the base station 1400 can compriseone or more light arrays to provide visual alerts, and one or more sounddevices (e.g., speakers) to provide auditory alerts. In someimplementations, the base station 1400 can comprise a battery 1428 and acontrol circuit board 1426, and a power converter unit 1432. In theseimplementations, the battery 1428 can store and provide electrical powerto the base station 1400, the power control circuit board 1426 cancontrol power use and charging of the battery 1428, and the powerconverter unit 1432 can transform incoming power (e.g., from anelectrical outlet) into electrical power that can be used forrecharging, and/or operating the base station 1400.

Further, as illustrated, the example base station 1400 can comprise aninductive charging control board 1422 for respective inductive chargingcoils 1416, 1418. In this example, the respective inductive chargingstations can be controlled by the accompanying inductive chargingcontrol board 1422. Additionally, the example base station 1400 comprisean audible alarm 1430 (e.g., siren), which can be activated when analert signal is indicated, to provide an audible alarm to proximateworkers. In this example, the base station 1400 can comprise anear-field communication reader 1424, such as a radio-frequencyidentification (RFID) reader. In this example, the reader 1424 can beactivated to read a near-field signal from a proximate device, such asto identify an RFID tag in/on a device to add the device to acommunication network with the base station 1400.

As an illustrative example, FIG. 15 is a component diagram illustratingone implementation of a work zone set up, using one or more portions ofthe systems described herein. As illustrated, an approach to a work zone(e.g., a roadway) can be at least partially delineated by a boundary1558 as determined by the workers 1552 in the work zone 1550. In thisexample, the approach boundary 1558 can be delineated by a plurality ofboundary markers 1556, such as cones, barrels, and the like, inaccordance with best practices (e.g., described above). Further, a workvehicle 1554 is parked in the work zone 1550 down road from thedelineated approach boundary 1558. One or more workers 1552 may bestationed in the work zone 1550 respectively having (e.g., wearing) apersonal alerter 1506 (e.g., 412, 1300).

In this example, a base station 1502 (e.g., 404, 1400) can be positionedon or proximate the work vehicle 1554 (if present), or at a locationdown road from the delineated approach boundary 1558. Further, aplurality of detection stations 1504 a, 1504 b, 1504 c (e.g., 402,1102), can be deployed along the boundary 1558. In this example, sevenboundary markers 1556 have been deployed (e.g., based on theconditions), and a first detection station 1504 a is engaged with thefirst boundary marker; a second detection station 1504 b has is engagedwith the fourth boundary marker; and a third detection station 1504 c isengaged with the sixth boundary marker. As an example, a number andposition of the deployment of the respective detection stations 1504 canbe determined by the length of the approach boundary 1558 and the numberof boundary markers 1556.

In this example, respective detection stations 1504 may have aneffective detection range according to the effective range of the radarcone 1508 produced by the detection station 1504. As illustrated, thesecond detection station 1504 b is deployed within the effective rangeof a first radar cone 1508 a; the third detection station 1504 c isdeployed within the effective range of a second radar cone 1508 b; and athird radar cone 1508 c has an effective range that at least reaches theend of the approach boundary 1558. In this way, for example, theapproach boundary 1558 can be effectively covered by the detectionstations 1504. It will be appreciated that any appropriate configurationof deployment of detection stations 1504 and boundary markers 1556 maybe utilized. For example, in a shorter approach boundary, merely twodetection stations may be deployed; and in a longer approach boundary,four or more detection stations may be deployed.

In some implementations, the base station (e.g., and/or the respectivedetection stations, and portable alerters) can be configured to providesecurity in the communication network used by the respective devices ina system (e.g., 400). For example, the base station 404, 1400 can beconfigured to communicatively couple with one or more detection stations402, 1102 and one or more portable alerters 412, 1300, such as to createa mesh network. In this example, BLE communication modules (e.g., orother suitable low power short-range communication modules) can bedisposed in the respective devices in the network, and used to set upcommunications between respective devices. In some implementations, asecurity code or key can be used to enable connection between devices,such that only a device that has or knows the key can couple with themesh network. As an example, the security code or key may be changed orupdated (e.g., to avert a security breach) as needed or automatically,and shared between linked devices. In some implementations, the basestation can be configured to reset the key or code, for example, uponreceiving a command triggered by a user interface (e.g., 1412). In thisexample, the respective devices on the system can update their keys tomatch that of the new code for the communication network.

In some implementations, near-field communication equipment andtechniques may be used to establish communication between one or moreportions of the system. As one example, RFID equipment may be used toestablish communication, and provide security in joining devices to acommunications network for the system. For example, an RFID can bedisposed in one or more pieces of the system (e.g., detection station,personal alerter, base station), where the tag consists of a radiotransponder (e.g., a radio receiver and transmitter). In this example,the tag can be interrogated by an electromagnetic interrogation pulsefrom a nearby RFID reader device (e.g., disposed in the base station);and the tag can transmit a signal comprising digital data thatidentifies the device. In this way, the base station may be able toidentify one or more detection stations 402, 1102 and one or moreportable alerters 412, 1300, to determine that they are authorized, inorder to securely set up a mesh network, or otherwise establishcommunications. As an example, the base station 404, 1400 may bepowered, and an RFID scanner activated. In this example, each detectionstation 402, 1102 and portable alerters 412, 1300 used in the system(e.g., 400) can be scanned to establish communication with the basestation 404, 1400, and/or respective devices 402, 1102, 412, 1300.

In some implementations, communication between respective devices in adeployed system may be encrypted. That is, for example, the mesh networkor other communication network may be encrypted to mitigate intrusion bymalicious (e.g., or unintentional) actors. In an illustrative example,components that link to an example communication network (e.g., personalarea network, mesh network, near-field network, or other wireless,close-range communication network) can comprise the base station (e.g.,404, 1400), the one or more detection stations (e.g., 402, 1102), andthe one or more portable alerters (e.g., 412, 1300). In this example,the network can be initiated by the base station, where each network(e.g., each different base station) can comprise a network ID that isparticular to that network (e.g., and base station). Further, respectivedevices that can or do couple with the network can store the particularnetwork ID in internal memory (e.g., non-volatile). In this way, forexample, the particular network ID that matches with the base station'snetwork ID can identify which network the device may belong to (e.g.,and communicate with). As one example, the network ID can be a 64-bitvalue that is composed of a 48-bit base station device ID, and a 16-bitrandomly-generated value. In this example, there may merely be one basestation for each different communications network.

In one example of pairing, the charging base can be preset (e.g.,factory set, or subsequent reset) with a particular network ID. Further,prior to initial pairing, the other devices (e.g., detection station,portable alerter) may have no network ID stored in memory. In thisexample, initial pairing can add a device to the network by providing atarget device with the particular network ID of a target base station.In this example, the base station can be disposed in pairing mode, andthe target device can be disposed in paring mode, and the base stationcan communicate the particular network ID to the target device, and thetarget device can store the particular network ID in their internalmemory. In this way, for example, the target device can be placed in thecommunications network with the base station. This process can beiterated for additional devices for the particular communicationsnetwork, for the target base station.

As one illustrative example, during typical operations for a particularcommunications network (e.g., when not in pairing mode), respectivedevices that are coupled with the network can perform two (e.g., ormore) communication operations relatively simultaneously (e.g., orasynchronously). In this example, respective devices can broadcastadvertising messages to the network (e.g., any one or more of thedevices coupled to the network); and scan for advertising messages fromthe network (e.g., any one or more of the devices coupled to thenetwork). As an example, respective advertising messages from a devicecan comprise one or more of the following:

-   -   A particular unique universal ID (UUID), which is particular to        the user (e.g., organization, company, person using the        device(s)). This UUID can be used to identify friendly or        allowed devices, and disallow any other unfriendly or        unauthorized (e.g., generic) network devices (e.g., Bluetooth);    -   A network ID, which can be the ID of the network that the        device(s) belong to;    -   A device ID, which can be the device that is broadcasting the        message;    -   The device type—base station, detection station, or portable        alerter;    -   An alarm notice, can indicate whether the sending device has an        active alarm;    -   A build number of the firmware version running on the sender        device; and    -   The operation mode of the device, which may be normal or        pairing.

In some implementations, a pairing procedure can allow a target device(e.g., detection station, portable alerter) to join a network created bya target base station. For example, this procedure can allow the targetdevice to obtain a network ID from the base station. In oneimplementation, the pairing can be initiated by disposing the targetdevice proximate the target base station, such as proximate an RFIDreader on/in the base station. In this example, the RFID reader can readthe device ID of the target device, and enter the base station intopairing mode, which results in the base station broadcasting a paringmode advertising, which includes the target device ID that the basestation received from the RFID reader.

In this example, the target device can receive the pairing modeadvertising message, and verify that the message includes the particularuser UUID, and that it is a pairing mode message. Further, the devicecan compare the device ID in the message to its own device ID; and, ifthey match, the target device can open a communication connection (e.g.,Bluetooth) with the target base station. Additionally, in this example,once a communication coupling is in place between the target device andtarget base station, the base station can write/send the particularnetwork ID for the target device, and the connection may be closed. Thetarget device can store the particular network ID to its memory, and anysubsequent device advertising message can include the particular networkID. Therefore, in this example, when the target base station receives anadvertising message from the target device including the particularnetwork ID, the base station can validate the message and/or the pairingprocedure has occurred appropriately.

In some implementations, a device may be removed from the communicationnetwork in one or more ways. For example, the device may simply bepowered off in order to remove it from the network. As another example,the target device may be successfully paired with a different basestation in order to remove it from the pairing with the priorcommunication network or base station. In some implementations, acommunication network can be reset, for example, to generate a newnetwork ID value. For example, a new 16-bit randomly generated value canbe generated and added to the 48-bit base station device ID, to generatea newly generated value for the 64-bit network ID value. In thisexample, any devices that were coupled to the communication networkprior to network reset may not be able to locate the base station with anew network ID, and may enter a network incomplete mode. In thisexample, the respective devices may need to go through the pairingprocess again in order to join a communication network with the resetbase station.

In some implementations, the light array can provide visual indicationsof the system (e.g., 400) status. For example, when devices in thesystem are paired together, with the base station, etc. the light arraycan provide different colors and/or levels of strobe/intensity toindicate status. For example, a blue LED may remain off when a device isstand-alone (e.g. not connected), or merely a base station is coupledwith the portable alerter(s) 412. Further as an example, a blinking blueLED with a blinking yellow RGB LED may indicate absence of a basestation (e.g., only detection station 402, 1102 and portable alerters412, 1300 used in the system), or only one detection station 402, 1102is present. Additionally, a blinking blue LED may indicate at least twodetection stations 402, 1102 are present and coupled. Anotherindication, such as a blinking magenta RGB LED, along with the blue LED,may indicate that an intruder (e.g., non-secure) device is attempting tojoin the network. It should be apparent that other or differentcombinations of lighting presentations can be used to indicate varioussituations.

Moreover, the word “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as anexample, instance or illustration. Any aspect or design described hereinas “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as advantageous overother aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intendedto present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application,the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than anexclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear fromcontext, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the naturalinclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or Xemploys both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any ofthe foregoing instances. Further, At least one of A and B and/or thelike generally means A or B or both A and B. In addition, the articles“a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims maygenerally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwiseor clear from context to be directed to a singular form.

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific tostructural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understoodthat the subject matter defined in the appended claims is notnecessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above.Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed asexample forms of implementing the claims.

Also, although the disclosure has been shown and described with respectto one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modificationswill occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading andunderstanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. Thedisclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and islimited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regardto the various functions performed by the above described components(e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe suchcomponents are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, toany component which performs the specified function of the describedcomponent (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though notstructurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs thefunction in the herein illustrated exemplary implementations of thedisclosure. In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosuremay have been disclosed with respect to only one of severalimplementations, such feature may be combined with one or more otherfeatures of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageousfor any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent thatthe terms “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof areused in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms areintended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

The implementations have been described, hereinabove. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that the above methods andapparatuses may incorporate changes and modifications without departingfrom the general scope of this invention. It is intended to include allsuch modifications and alterations in so far as they come within thescope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for alerting personnel proximate a work zone to a work zone intrusion, comprising: a detection unit comprising: a body that is operable to mount to a work zone boundary marker delineating a work zone; and at least one proximity sensor that detects a moving object that is proximate the work zone; a base station communicatively coupled with the detection unit; and a personnel alerter comprising a portable body, the personnel alerter operably receiving an alarm signal from one or more of the detection unit and the base station resulting in the personnel alerter activating an alert; wherein the detection unit transmits the alarm signal upon detection of the moving object.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the detection unit, personnel alerter, and base station are arranged in a mesh network and communicate with each other wirelessly.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein at least one of the detection unit and the base station is configured to activate an alert.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the detection unit, base station, and personnel alerter respectively act as a receiver and as a repeater so that detection of the moving object by the detection unit activates the alert by each of the detection unit, base station, and personnel alerter.
 5. The system of claim 3, wherein the alert may comprise one or more of a visual alert, audible alert, and sensory alert.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein the base station is configured to operably electrically charge one or more of the detection unit when the detection unit is not in use, and the personnel alerter when the personnel alerter is not in use.
 7. The system of claim 1, the detection unit further comprising one or more of: a battery to provide electrical power; an alert device configured to activate an alert upon detection of the moving object; a transmitter configured to transmit the alarm signal upon detection of the moving object; at least one processing device configured to evaluate data related to detection of the moving object in the vicinity of the work zone, wherein the at least one processing device is operatively connected to the alert device; and at least one software module comprising code configured to evaluate the moving object to estimate the probability of a work zone intrusion based on proximity of the moving object to the work zone and direction of travel of the moving object of the moving object; wherein the at least one processing device and the alert device are configured to activate the alert in the event the processing device and/or software module detects a probable work zone intrusion by the moving object.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the proximity sensor comprises a Doppler sensor that transmits and receives a radar signal to detect the moving object in the vicinity of the proximity sensor using the Doppler effect, wherein the Doppler sensor is configured to detect one or more of: a velocity of the moving object, a distance to the moving object, and a presence of the moving object in the work zone.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the detection unit further comprises at least one additional sensor to detect one or more of: a presence of a metal object proximate the work zone; movement between a first proximity sensor and a second proximity sensor; tilt of a proximity sensor, vibration, shock, and freefall.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one additional sensor comprises one of a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, and a motion sensor.
 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the detection unit further comprises an alignment mechanism which indicates a direction of object detection by the proximity sensor.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the detection unit comprises a first detection unit, and the alignment mechanism is configured to aim toward a second detection unit to align the first detection unit with a second detection unit to collectively delineate a detection boundary for the work zone.
 13. The system of claim 1, wherein the personnel alerter is a wearable device operable to attach to a worker.
 14. The system of claim 13, the personnel alerter comprising one or more of: a personnel alerter power source providing electrical power; an engagement component configured to secure the personnel alerter to an article of clothing on the worker; at least one of an audio alerter, visual alerter, and sensory alerter; and a wireless receiver that receives the alarm signal from one or more of the detection unit and the base station.
 15. A system for alerting personnel proximate a work zone to a work zone intrusion, comprising: a detection unit comprising: a body that is operable to mount to a work zone boundary marker delineating a work zone; and at least one proximity sensor that transmits and receives a radar signal to detect one or more of a velocity of the moving object, a distance to the moving object, and a presence of the moving object proximate the work zone; a base station communicatively coupled with the detection unit to receive a signal from the detection unit; and a personnel alerter comprising a portable body, the personnel alerter receiving an alarm signal from one or more of the detection unit and the base station, resulting in the personnel alerter activating an alert; wherein the detection unit transmits the alarm signal upon detection of the moving object; and wherein the detection unit, personnel alerter, and base station are arranged in a mesh network and communicate with each other wirelessly such that the detection unit and base station each act as a receiver and as a repeater whereby detection of a moving object in the vicinity of the work zone activates the alert by each of the detection unit, base station, and personnel alerter.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the alert comprises one or more of a visual alert, audible alert, and sensory alert.
 17. The system of claim 15, the detection unit further comprising: a battery to provide electrical power; an alert device configured to activate an alert upon detection of the moving object; a transmitter configured to transmit the alarm signal upon detection of the moving object; at least one processing device configured to evaluate data related to detection of the moving object in the vicinity of the work zone, wherein the at least one processing device is operatively connected to the alert device; and memory storing at least one software module comprising code configured to evaluate sensor data related to the moving object to estimate the probability and/or severity of a work zone intrusion based on proximity of the moving object to the work zone, direction of travel of the moving object, and speed of the moving object; wherein the at least one processing device and the alert device are configured to activate the alert in the event the processing device, in conjunction with the software module, indicates a probable work zone intrusion by the moving object.
 18. The system of claim 15, wherein the personnel alerter is a wearable device comprising: a battery to provide electrical power; an engagement component configured to secure the personnel alerter to an article of clothing on the worker; at least one of an audio alerter, visual alerter, and sensory alerter; and a wireless receiver that receives the alarm signal from one or more of the detection unit and the base station.
 19. A method for alerting personnel proximate a work zone to a work zone intrusion, comprising: arranging a detection unit, personnel alerter, and a base station in a mesh network in wireless communication; mounting a detection unit on a work zone boundary marker that delineates a work zone, wherein the detection unit comprises: a body that is operable to mount to the work zone boundary marker; and at least one proximity sensor that is configured to radar to detect one or more of: a presence of a moving object in a vicinity of the work zone, a velocity of a moving object proximate the work zone, and a distance to the moving object; communicatively coupling the base station with the detection unit; operably monitoring the work zone with the detection unit for the moving object; transmitting, upon detection of the moving object, an alarm signal from the detection unit to at least one of the personnel alerter and the base station; activating an alert, by the personnel alerter, upon receiving the alarm signal from one or more of the detection unit and the base station, the personnel alerter comprising a portable body.
 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the alert may comprise one or more of a visual alert, audible alert, or sensory alert. 